8 Companies with Most Sales Exposure to Europe

Many big companies like McDonald's Corp, Coca-Cola, and XL Capital Ltd. operate worldwide, but they have significant exposure to Europe. Such companies may face risks from slowing growth and the threat of sovereign default. The story, which is sales, is continuing to help, but it may be starting to come a little bit under pressure. S&P 500 companies derive 14% of sales from Europe. Here are eight companies with most sales exposure to Europe.

First Solar Inc.

First Solar is a manufacturer of thin film photovoltaic modules that was established by inventor Harold McMaster as Solar Cells, Inc in 1990 and went public in 2006. In 2010, the company was considered the second largest maker in 2010. It also ranked sixth in Fast Company’s list of 50 most innovative companies in the world. In 2011, the company topped Forbes' list of America's 25 fastest-growing technology companies.

Europe sales: 60%

Owens-Illinois Inc.

Owens - Illinois Inc. is one of the world's leading manufacturers of glass containers in Asia-Pacific, North America, South America, and Europe.

McDonald's Corp. is the world's largest burger chain. It serves about 64 million customers daily in 119 countries.

Europe sales: 40%

Gilead Sciences Inc.

Headquartered in Foster City, California, Gilead Sciences operates in North America, Australia, and Europe. The biopharmaceutical company mainly focuses on anitviral drugs to treat people with Hepatitis B, influenza, and HIV.

Europe sales: 40%

XL Capital Ltd.

XL Capital Ltd. is one of the world's leading providers of insurance, reinsurance, and financial risk solutions.

Europe sales: 48%

Coca-Cola Enterprises Inc.

Coca-Cola was the anchor bottler for most of North America. It is now the bottler for Western Europe.